The Carter House

The food was the biggest letdown. It came across like a mix of every Michelin style in the book, and the result felt tired and tasteless, with too many custards and too little protein. I was annoyed to have paid $2,000. I don’t mind paying, but expected more. If you’re in the DMV area, The Dabney or Rose’s Luxury are better bets. They’re obsessed with food and keep pushing boundaries. Little Inn now feels like a money-making expedition that has left food and its culture behind. The inn itself is one of the most beautiful properties I’ve seen, and the staff and service were top-notch. In the end it was a fine experience.

We went for my dad’s birthday, and the team made it a special, unforgettable occasion. There was a handwritten birthday card waiting for us in the Claiborne house, along with personalized menus. The staff were incredibly attentive, and the attention to detail was almost like Sherlock Holmes. Everything felt luxurious, with little surprises throughout, and the food was delectable, from afternoon tea and lounge cocktails to dinner and breakfast the next morning. That dinner was next level. They have 3 Michelin stars for a reason. Chef Patrick and his team keep creating and improving things. I visited about 18 months ago, and they’d already added or improved several areas to make the experience more opulent. They’re building a swimming pool, have plans for a spa, which was the one thing missing, and have several other projects ahead. I can’t wait to see what’s next or for another magnificent getaway at Inn at little Washington. Thank you, Chef Patrick and team, for making our stay so glamorous and unforgettable.

The food was fresh, the flavors came together effortlessly, and every plate looked beautiful. Each dish arrived with perfect timing. We chose the upgraded option with the caviar dish, which didn’t disappoint. I especially loved the cucumber salad with it and the miniature toast bites. The service was A1 from beginning to end, with professional staff who knew the menu, the history, and the area. The drive is worth it for the scenery and charm. It’s a quiet, quaint spot away from the hustle and bustle, and I loved the old-fashioned feel of the street, the buildings, and the restaurant interior.

The fire in the fireplace was a lovely homey touch, and the service was 10/10. Everyone was friendly and took our coats at the door. I only ate at the restaurant, so I can’t comment on the rooms. The 48th anniversary menu was probably an 8/10. The bread was amazing, and the roasted garlic custard was lovely, especially spread on the bread. The fire and ice peppered tuna was good. I enjoyed the venison, though my husband disliked its texture, and I loved the paw paw posset. About half of the seven deadly sins were good. I didn’t care for the baby lamb loin, likely just a matter of taste. The lobster gnocchi tasted off, as did an unlisted opening dish with lobster, which smelled off too. I’m not opposed to lobster. I also thought it was odd that I got a complimentary box of candies but my husband, who was celebrating his birthday, didn’t. Another table of six each got a box, and we were told we could share. If anyone should have received a box, it was him, though maybe that’s standard. With a bottle of wine, we spent over $1,300 and the food didn’t wow me. When I booked and paid upfront, the restaurant had 3 Michelin stars rather than two, and that distinction was why I chose it over DC. It was disappointing because this was a big birthday and I’d hoped to say it was the only 3 star within a certain number of miles, but I couldn’t. It was a good experience, just not as good as I expected.